After surgery postoperative instructions

 

General information:

• It is common to note swelling in the hand and more stiffness the day after surgery.  

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• Although the there is generally no bleeding at the conclusion of the procedure some subsequent bleeding can result in the formation of a bruise which often resolves over several weeks.

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• Also, common over the first 6 weeks to note increasing firmness (lumps and bumps) around the incision.  This is often due to formation of scar tissue as part of the natural healing process.  

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• Sometimes small gaps can form at the incision site in between stitches, if they are small appearing and not associated with drainage or other signs of infection they often will fill in with new skin over the first several weeks.

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• Generally after hand surgery the hand does not feel quite as strong and gripping and while using the hand for manual activities people note some loss of strength this often begins to improve over several months following surgery

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• If there is ever a question or concern about the appearance of the arm or hand or any other concern please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.

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Surgical Bandages:

• Remove surgical bandages anytime between the first and third day after surgery.  Wash your arm with soap and water. (I have found foam soap easiest to apply to a surgical wound).  Keep wound clean and dry with a fresh Band-Aids (may need lager size Band-Aid)

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• Some patients utilize a soap called Hibiclens if they are not allergic.  It is sold in liquid and foaming versions as well, many patients might prefer foaming version.

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Pain management:

• If you can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), these often are adequate to manage pain.  If you cannot, alternative pain medication can be provided.  If you do not have a prescription already, another prescription can be sent to your pharmacy with alternative pain medications.

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Follow-up:

• If you do not have a follow-up appointment already scheduled, please contact the office and schedule appointment for 12-14 days after your procedure. (512-454-4561)

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Movement:

• Work on flexing and extending your elbow rotating your forearm palm up and palm down, and moving your hand and wrist every hour while awake.  Keeping the entire arm moving and mobile.

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• At least every hour while awake make a full fist and straighten your hand digits 10 times per hour, until it becomes easier. (especially working on moving the digit(s) operated on). My hope is that by your first after surgery visit

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• Here is a website that has helpful information for arm, hand, and finger range of motion​

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• Here is some information that might be helpful regarding strengthening of the hand.  Please wait 10 to 14 days before beginning strengthening exercises

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• Here is some information regarding using hand putty ("Theraputty" is one brand that can be purchased) for strengthening and range of motion.

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• This can be purchased online (amazon.com) sells different pack sizes, and I generally recommend 6 different strengths.

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• Here is a website that has some information and hand exercises. Start after the skin is healed (10-14 days)

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Concerns:

• If you begin to have fevers, sweats, chills, or wound drainage, or other concerns, please contact our office immediately.  Non-urgent questions can be addressed through MyChart.

• 512-454-4561 is the office number

Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Lee Reichel